Pupils to teach seniors how to use computers

Dec 28 2012 By Sandy Kilpatrick, Dumfries and Galloway Standard

Web savvy pupils at St Joseph’s College will train the elderly to become ‘Silver Surfers’.

The senior pupils are organising a programme of computer classes for retired members of the local community to help them use the internet.

The project aims to provide personalised training in basic computer skills, from how to use email and the internet, to showing people around a computer’s many functions.

S6 pupil Leah McLardie said: “We really wanted to do something to bridge the gap between the generations, and we thought that this would be the ideal way to do something positive.

“I’m really looking forward to the Silver Surfer project.”

The classes will be tailored to individual needs, from absolute beginners to those with a bit of confidence and experience who are looking to move on to the next level of computer use.

Poppy Fitzpatrick added: “Our generation is very switched on to computers, and we probably take it for granted that IT is second nature to everyone.

“However this isn’t the case, which is why we came up with this idea to do something really practical to support older people in our local community.

“The project is a great idea, and it will be a rewarding experience for both pupils and members of our community.”

If you are retired and interested in getting involved, please phone St Joseph’s College (01387) 252893 and ask for Mr Donnelly, Poppy Fitzpatrick or Leah McLardie.

The classes begin on Thursday, January 24, between 2.30 and 3.30pm, and will run at the same time every Thursday during term time.